Man, @wadefoster, that's why I always check for the simple stuff first, like a stray toy or a sock.

Yeah, I feel that. My first pile was just kitchen scraps and grass clippings, and it was a cold, wet mess for months. I had to learn the hard way that you need way more browns, like dried leaves or that shredded cardboard you mentioned, to soak up the moisture and get it cooking.

Can't believe they ditched the white sandwich loaf.

Used to be the same way, but that kind of shift really makes you see the overkill.

Honestly that "good ingredients, time, and skill" line gets thrown around a lot. Tbh most people buying bread just want something to make a sandwich with, they aren't looking for a life changing artisanal experience. It's flour and water, you even said it yourself. Maybe the pricing disconnect is because not everyone needs or wants the fancy organic stuff.